Baby sleep disorder

Sleep disorders are very common among the babies. It is important that every new parent needs to be aware that their new baby may end up suffering from a baby sleep disorder. Infants and children will display different symptoms compared to adults for same disorder.

When assessing the presence of disordered sleeping in infants, it is important to understand baby sleep patterns. Infants don’t sleep like adults, children or even toddlers. Typically, infants will sleep between 15-16 hours a day, divided in small bursts of approximately 30 minutes to 3 hours at a time. This sleeping is equally divided between nighttime and daytime. By the time that an infant is one year old, he will sleep about 14 hours per day, in longer segments and more at night, but will still wake a few times during the night. This is considered normal and, while exhausting for his caregiver, is not a disorder.

Types of baby sleep disorders

There are two general categories of sleep disorders that can affect babies, parasomnias and dyssomnias. Parasomnias disrupt sleep, like night terrors or sleep walking. Typically these disorders don’t occur in children under the age of 18 months. The other type, dyssomnias, cause problems falling asleep, remaining asleep or experiencing restful sleep.

SIDS

One of the more common baby sleep disorders is SIDS, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. SIDS is characterized when a healthy infant stops breathing while sleeping. If the infant is not encouraged to resume breathing again, death occurs. While the cause is not known yet, there are many hypotheses as to some factors contributing to the risk. It is thought that some genetic and environmental factors can increase the chances of a newborn suffering from SIDS. Infants that are at risk are set up with a monitoring system that alerts the parents when the infant stops breathing.

Causes of Baby sleep disorder

Separation anxiety

Separation anxiety is another major issue. Babies feel separated once they are by themselves in the bassinet. New born babies crave for mothers lap to ensure safety. Once they are separated, the start feeling insecure. Both parents can help each other and their baby by gentle petting once the baby is awake. It will let the child know that you are still there for them.

Scratches & Itchy body

Sometimes, it is also the uncomfortable clothing that hides scratches and makes the entire body itchy. Use loose clothes on toddlers. Other kids may get an allergy due to the formula food. That is why Mother's milk is recommended until two years. It not only helps with better nutrition but is proved to develop a strong immune system.

Dust, airborne and pollen allergie

Small children are prone to dust, airborne and pollen allergies. It is therefore recommended, not to expose babies in open air for long intervals. Also, abdominal gas, teething and ear ache are the primary reasons behind an irritated child. Parents should be able to recognize such signs. Talk to your pediatrician about these natural causes. Things are most uncomfortable for babies if they feel hot, cold or wet conditions. It is imperative that your baby is kept under a controlled environment.

Colic

Colic is another disorder. Doctors think that half of the babies suffer from Colic. It is the condition of the body when an immature nervous system is not able to adjust to the new environment. Therefore, the body's only reaction is crying. No, Colic is not an illness. It is just that your baby is sensitive and more alert to the stimuli in nature. It heals with the passage of time.

Baby sleep problems can range from mildly inconvenient to life-threatening. The best way to prevent potential problems is to be aware of any changes in your baby’s sleep patterns. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your health professional.

Insomnia Humor

Insomnia Blog

Affiliates Links

What is insomnia, Insomnia definition, Insomnia meaning